I love to share recipes, but if that were my main reason for hanging out on this blog, I could certainly do so without all these irritating WORRRRDS. You know, all these ridiculous, worthless THOUGHTS. I could just post photos, ingredients, directions, THE END. Wouldn’t that be a relief?

It would be to one lady, anyway. This lady on Pinterest pinned my recipe a few weeks ago with the caption, “You have to scroll through a bunch of ‘I don’t really care’ things to get to the recipe, so just scroll down.” Uh.

Now #realtalk, I don’t mind if someone just comes here for the recipes and skips the “life lessons” storytelling part. I’m a writer, a thinker, a reflector, and these words are important to me, but I don’t mind if they’re not important to everyone. Some of you are scrolling past this right now to get to the cake recipe down there, and more power to ya.

But what I did care about was the public insult. This stranger thought it was okay to come here to grab a recipe I developed for her for free while calling my heartfelt writing “I don’t really care things” in a public forum. She could’ve disagreed, she could’ve ignored, but did she have to click that button and dig into her keyboard to say something unkind? She had the right to, certainly. We have the right to issue whatever destructive or hurtful words we want out into the world (in the United States, anyway). But perhaps it would’ve been more productive to THINK:

I didn’t lose any sleep over it and I’m still planning to write “I don’t really care things” along with every recipe. I wanted to tell the story for several reasons, though. First, it’s just another excuse to call for kindness on the internet, something I feel passionate about. Second, it’s a warning: real people might see what you’ve written about them online, so choose your words carefully. Third, it’s an opportunity to reaffirm my purpose here.

I develop recipes to share with you because I love to bake, experiment, and build a community around our kitchen experiences. But I could do all that over on AllRecipes if I were so inclined. This blog provides something beyond that for me: a room where I can write all over the walls, a corner of the internet where I can say the important, funny, compelling, ridiculous, boring, thoughtful, stirring things I have to say and where people can read them. Whether you want to do so or not, by all means, come and enjoy dessert. But if you feel the need to degrade or dismiss my thoughts while you’re here, I guess I’d rather you not bother.

HERE’S THE PART WHERE YOU CAN START READING AGAIN IF YOU SCROLLED PAST ALL THOSE PESKY WORDS. (I ain’t bitter.)

This cake will cure a host of evils. It’s so quick and easy to whip up — just beat your egg whites while mixing up your butter, sugar, and egg yolks. Add a few more ingredients, fold ’em together, and pop ’em in a water bath to bake. The result is a pudding-cake masterpiece with the most heavenly cloudlike texture and a great coconut flavor.

This cloudlike Coconut Pudding Spoon Cake takes just around 15 minutes to whip up and get in the oven, but it’s so warm, satisfying, and moist. The texture alone is enough to knock you right off your feet. Enjoy!

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Put some water in a saucepan on to boil; you’ll use this for the water bath later. In the bowl of a stand mixer, whip 4 egg whites on medium speed until foamy and then slowly add 1/4 cup of sugar. Turn mixer to high and whip the egg whites to stiff, glossy peaks.

In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and remaining sugar for 2-3 minutes until pale, fluffy yellow. Mix in the egg yolks and extracts until just combined, scraping down the sides as needed. Mix in the flour and salt until just combined. Mix in the coconut milk until just combined.

Stir in about 1/3 of the egg white mixture into the butter mixture to lighten it up. Then add the rest of the egg white mixture and the shredded coconut, folding them in gently until there are no streaks in the mixture. Pour the mixture into a shallow, ungreased 2-quart baking dish (mine is the oval seen above and is actually about 1.9 quarts.) Place the filled dish in a larger 9×13-inch baking dish on your oven rack and carefully pour boiling water up to about 1/2-inch deep around it to form a water bath. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until set and golden brown. Carefully remove from the oven and serve warm.

68 Comments on Coconut Pudding Spoon Cake

I love reading the “I don’t really care things” as a matter of fact I also write on my blog about things some people probably don’t care about. This is what my blog is about, but I also agree that some people use this forum to vent and there aim is to upset. I’m glad that these people are in the minority group and there are people who also like to read about the things that make us who we are. By the way I just love that tea towel, best wishes Wendy

Liz S.

February 10, 2014 at 1:13 am (6 years ago)

I’m sorry you had to deal with a hating troll like that. It’s the negative jerks who were partially the reason for me to quit blogging after 4 years – they take the fun out of everything and are hurtful. I love your blog for the recipes AND the words. You put thought and care into your posts, and it’s inspiring! Please keep it up and I hope that the idiots take a good look at themselves, to figure out why they must be so rude.

Susan S

February 10, 2014 at 3:51 am (6 years ago)

I enjoy getting to know you and to listen to your stories. Maybe you could include one of the ingredients in the “talking” part! It would be interesting to see what she’d have to say about none of your recipes working for her any more! Not terribly nice but definitely satisfying! ;-D

Donna Valdez

February 10, 2014 at 4:58 am (6 years ago)

I hope that Negative Nancy chokes as she eats the next dish she prepares from the free recipes she finds on blogs. Okay, maybe not choke. Maybe she can just make disastrous dishes? Hey, that can be her new website. Debbie Downer’s Disastrous Dishes!

I love the stories. I love that people like you write like how I think. I am glad to see I am not alone.

I only follow blogs whose words I love to read. Yours is one of them. kindness on the internet is a movement that should be seriously considered. A lot of hurtful comments make their way and kill the spirit of the writer/ creator of the content. I go to several websites and see the different kinds of vile comments there that have been shared thoughtlessly.
I think you are doing an incredible job with your words and your recipes.
This pudding is just too gorgeous especially because am more partial to puddings than towards other bakes.

Julie, I found the exact same type of comment on a pinned recipe of mine as well. I had the same reaction. Not so much hurt, but more, “Gosh, she could have just said ‘Recipe at the bottom.'” or really, nothing at all. I just assume most people have enough internet know-how these days to understand that they might have to look PAST THE FIRST SENTENCE of a blog post to find the recipe. I found it funny because, although I am admittedly verbose, I didn’t think it was a particularly long post that would require a road map in order to find the “hidden” recipe. Haha! Good thing it wasn’t a post where I went off on a tangent or she may never have found the actual recipe! I also found a pinned recipe saying that my Rocky Road footballs look like something from within the bowels. Sounds like a personal problem to me. 😉 Haha! Keep “ramblin'”, girl! xo

Connie

Elise

February 10, 2014 at 8:18 am (6 years ago)

Hmm. Whoever posted that “I don’t really care things” remark has missed out on one vitally important part of cooking and baking – emotion. My emotions play a strong part in my cooking. If I am angry, I will burn what I’m cooking. If I am happy, if I’m singing and dancing as I move from surface to surface, then somehow whatever I prepare tastes better. Making cheese scones with love in my heart means they’re going to be really good cheese scones.

Each and every one of your recipes comes with a beautiful tale, anecdote, something that personalises it and shares that love you’ve put into your work. And it puts a smile on the face and in the heart of the reader who bothers to read all your words.

I pity the person who posted that comment. They don’t get the emotion thing. Which makes me think that their mindset is also reflected in their cooking. Sure, it might be delicious. But will it ever be as delicious as the one someone makes with that smile and love in their heart?

Vickie S.

February 10, 2014 at 8:47 am (6 years ago)

I love the “I don’t care” things! That’s what makes your blog so interesting. Internet nastiness is a problem but keep in mind there are so many folks who take pleasure in misery and you will never satisfy them. If they don’t care for what you say, the shouldn’t read it!

Wendy

February 10, 2014 at 8:52 am (6 years ago)

Julie, Your recipes all look amazing and the pictures make my mouth water as I scroll through your post. But my absolute favorite part of your posts are the stories. You are very gifted in your writing abilities. I read a lot of different blogs for different reasons. Yours I find to be entertaining as you take us on a short journey through your words. Don’t let one persons negative comment affect your writing style (which it doesn’t sound like you are thank goodness). I never understand why people feel the need to make negative comments. I tell myself that they must be miserable in their own lives and make comments like that to try and make you feel bad and bring you down to their level. Thankfully they don’t have the power to do that unless you let them.

All of these “words” just to say that I love what you are doing and thank you for all the wonderful stories that you tell.

Carmina

February 10, 2014 at 9:58 am (6 years ago)

Julie, I read your blog because of your words! Yours is probably one of the only blogs that I don’t skim, because your stories are so interesting, heartfelt, and well-written. Thank you for everything you put into this blog!

Great post. WBB is one site where when I see the name pop up in my reader I slow down and stop to read and process your words. I know I have probably said this before but you have a gift and I love all the thought you put into your posts.

I have seen a few of my recipes pinned to hate boards on good ol’ Pinterest. Women, or should I call them girls just to be snippy, have entire boards where they pin recipes and say stuff like, “God what a fatass posting such a fattening recipe,” and stuff like that. Literally boards called “Shit I hate on Pinterest.” I leave a comment along the lines of, “Am I understanding this board correctly, you actually take the time to pin to a board that reminds you of everything that bothers you?” Holy cow, people are negative. I let it get to me from time to time, I wish I didn’t but I do.

Thank you for being strong and level headed! You are a great role model. 🙂

First of all, I’m completely intrigued by this cake. I may have developed a slight crush on it. Secondly, while there are so many kind people we interact with through our blogs, there will always be some less-than-kind people. I worked a very long time in an ugly environment that forced me to grow a thick skin, but I know it stills stinks. Write whatever you want. I just read every word. 🙂

Don’t ever stop being who you are as a blogger and a woman. You started this blog for a reason, and if people don’t love you for who you are then they aren’t worth thinking twice about. Your work is fabulous and your stories are who you are. No need to change for anyone. Hugs.

Ruth McKowen

February 10, 2014 at 11:51 am (6 years ago)

I love reading blogs!!! I don’t read every word on every blog, but food and cooking blogs have become my favorite thing. So keep on writing! Some people just don’t get it, and sadly, understanding the thoughts and intents of a ‘blogger’ is most likely not the only thing in life they don’t get.

Stephy

February 10, 2014 at 12:39 pm (6 years ago)

I suppose we could always hope that this person didn’t realize that her comments were visible to everyone on pinterest…
This does serve as a little reminder to everyone that on the internet, what we say can go places we don’t necessarily intend them to. I have loved the THINK methodology for conversation/posting for a long while, and if you had not mentioned it, I was going to. Nicely written, without venom.
Keep being yourself–it’s a wonderful gift for everyone else!

Stephy

February 10, 2014 at 12:44 pm (6 years ago)

Oh and one more thing. I don’t like coconut. (ignores the sharply indrawn breaths and gasps of horror) Do you think that this cake would work with other flavours? I love the idea of the texture of it. What do you think would make a good substitute?

Stephy

Laura Pierson

February 10, 2014 at 4:04 pm (6 years ago)

Please keep writing all of the “I don’t care things”. I assure you that there are more of us on your website that love to read your stories than there are of her kind that “don’t care”. I can’t wait to try this one, it looks yummy!

Theresa

February 10, 2014 at 5:15 pm (6 years ago)

Hello Julie, I had to post a thank you for your great post and the wonderful think before you speak rules. I was wondering if that is from a poster or a card that is for sale somewhere. I would love to have that in a frame! Anywho, I just felt compelled to write something today, because I don’t often read blogs ( I’m usually in a rush to get whatever recipe I want). But what a delight it’s been hearing your thoughts and browsing through your recipes. You are a welcome breathe of fresh air and and I look forward to following your blog…when I’m not in a rush 🙂 and hopefully while enjoying one of your special treats!

Ellen

February 10, 2014 at 7:38 pm (6 years ago)

AMEN and amen! I LOVE your writing! I secretly would love to be a great writer. 🙂 I love your stories; they are insightful and thought provoking. That Pinterest person was ONE person. Don’t sweat it. Everyone else who reads your blog loves you. BTW, I would like that birdie towel for my kitchen! xxoo

Danielle

February 10, 2014 at 8:22 pm (6 years ago)

For me, cooking and baking isn’t just about the creation, it’s about the story (if there is one. and if there isn’t one, that’s okay too). Most people, I think, tend to associate food with family and friends, or events, or all three, and I really enjoy reading the stories, thoughts, etc. Pay no attention to the naysayers and keep it up!

maureen m.

February 10, 2014 at 10:34 pm (6 years ago)

I’m beginning to think that comment boards are a bad idea. No matter what news story I click on, the comments never cease to appall me with their level or rudeness, ignorance, disrespect and downright hate. The person who took the time to casually mention something negative clearly had no regard for the fact that some people do have feelings. It’s just another example of the degradation of basic manners and common courtesy that have declined in the new “it’s all about me” society that exists today. Carry on and keep on doing what you do, in whatever way you please. This is YOUR blog and it is loved by many!

Julie Ruble

February 10, 2014 at 10:47 pm (6 years ago)

I feel the EXACT same way about comments!! Unless heavily moderated for productive discussion, I say take ’em all down. Especially on huge news sites like CNN, ugh! I like when thoughtful moderators keep discussion on track and delete hateful commentary.

Julie Ruble

Dianne

February 10, 2014 at 11:50 pm (6 years ago)

I happened upon your blog near the time of your wedding – and while it was the cooking that caught my attention, it is the sweetness and wisdom of your blog that has kept me coming back. Thanks for sharing your story, and for even doing that in a kind way in spite of the insult you described. Kindness is contagious – keep passing it on! ( I love your recipes too!)

Marcella

Gosh, I really hope people who leave nasty comments will feel better about themselves when they do that. I wish more people would t.h.i.n.k. like you, wouldnt’that make the internet a lovelier place?

I for one love reading your posts, I wish I had the ability to put my thoughts into words like that. Your posts nearly always make me think and reflect, so I guess that’s a good thing. (And then sometimes I just gush over the pictures..)

I think we all have moments where we think we may be waffling on too much and that no-one is really that interested, but if we didn’t then how boring would our blogs be? People wouldn’t really get to know ‘us’, the person behind the recipes. Which is something the lady in question clearly forgot. We are not machines, we are people. Even Nigella has ‘wordy’ bits in her books, especially How To Eat, which was written with the intention of being read as a book, rather than casually flicked through like some recipe/cook books are. It is all too easy to vent on the internet and in most cases it is not appropriate. I love your THINK acronym – it is so true.

Martha Ann

Toni

February 11, 2014 at 6:56 am (6 years ago)

Julie,
I have copied your “I don’t really care things” acronym THINK. So important and, it seems, something we lack in our society today. Everyone thinks they have can just put anything out there. Having taught for many years about the power of words and how what we say impacts other people, your blog today really is an important one. As children we learned to say, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me” in response to Negative Nellies’ unkind, thoughtless words. But, really, words hurt far more and longer than any stick or stone can. I’m sorry you had to experience such unfounded, unnecessary words in such a public forum. Continue doing what you are doing — love the recipes, as well.

Joy

April

February 11, 2014 at 9:59 am (6 years ago)

The person who posted that your words were ‘I don’t care things’ is really missing out. I love your stories and words of wisdom, and often find myself sharing your posts — not just for the recipes (which I’m sure are very good, the taco ring was amazing) — but for the stories as well.
I considered not leaving a comment (usually I don’t), but then again, one more encouraging voice is rarely a bad thing. Keep writing!

KatieQ

February 11, 2014 at 9:38 pm (6 years ago)

It’s your blog. You should be able to write whatever makes you happy. I love your, “I don’t really care things.” It’s what makes your blog unique. If all I wanted was recipes, I could buy a cook book. I love the way you sprinkle things in among the recipes. I enjoyed seeing the William Carlos Williams poem paired with the Plum and Cream Mini Tortes and everything else along the way.

JULIE!! Oh how bravely, diplomatically, clearly, concisely, AND beautifully you handled the issue of the rude and “carless of someone else’s feelings” pinner!!
I love your blog. I love your words. You always take time to chat. And that makes these receipts seem like they’re coming from a friend and neighbor!! It makes them personal. And isn’t that what cooking from the heart is all about…….
Keep on writing and sharing all your wonderful receipts….
Most sincerely, Cate Tuten

How Rude! <–said in the Stephanie Tanner from Full House tone 🙂 I, for one, adore all your words and always love reading the stories you weave in with your recipes. It gives your blog such personality and keeps me coming back for more. So keep those words coming (and your gorgeous recipes, of course)!

bonnie happell

February 12, 2014 at 9:16 pm (6 years ago)

Please don’t let them get you down. I am so pleased to have found your site. Your site is so enjoyable and filled with so much information and great recipes. Keep writing, a lot of us are enjoying fresh friendly and good natured things to read. Thanks again.

Hi Julie….I have a YouTube channel and I am constantly surprised at what people say in the comments…our demographic is 13-17 year olds. I guess you could say it’s our “fault” for putting ourselves on the internet, but I agree that kindness goes a long way! I think it’s human nature to focus on the one negative comment, while the 99 positive ones get ignored. I heard a really good quote once….give the comment the 10 seconds of thought that it took the writer to write, see if there is any truth to it, and move on.

Karishma Sundaram

February 13, 2014 at 1:53 am (6 years ago)

Hi,
I’ve been a long-time reader of your blog, but commenting for the first time (mainly because I use the RSS feed). I think it’s atrocious how someone can share a recipe you’ve crafted with so much care, and dismiss everything around it so callously – just because it doesn’t interest them.

I just wanted to say that I adore your blog, not only for the wonderful recipes, but I keep coming back to read your words, because they strike a chord each time. I am sure a lot of people feel the same way.

I must say, that there are far too many people out there that think they are the only ones in it. Their satisfaction is a priority. Guess what, it ain’t so. This me, me attitude is for the birds. When I grew up, you thought before you spoke and even if you disliked a person, you were not unkind. I for one, and I am only one, but, one by one adds up to lots, loves your blog and recipes. If I did not, I would not visit, that’s all. Like turning off the TV if you do not like the program. I am glad you are not taking this persons comments to heart, evidently she has no compassion. Just know that lots of people enjoy your blog and always will. Keep up the good work. BTW, that tea towel is the bees knees. Love it.

Samantha

February 13, 2014 at 11:16 am (6 years ago)

I don’t comment very often because I’m usually reading on the train and iphone doesn’t like typing into Safari (darn 4s). But I’d just like to say, I like reading your blog. When I get to the recipe, actually, I get a little sad because it means the blog part is over (and also there are no more yummy photos lol). I guess that lady likes trolling more than she likes reading, which, I’m sure must be a delightful pastime for one if one is a troll. I am, however, a lover of words, and also of food, so I think I’ll stick with enjoying your positive attitude and good stories. 🙂

Amanda

February 13, 2014 at 10:07 pm (6 years ago)

Julie, when I first read your post, my immediate reaction was to leave a note and beg you to please continue writing along with your recipes and to ignore that hurtful and thoughtless comment from that Pinterest lady; then I scrolled down to find a huge group of warm and encouraging comments from others saying exactly what I was thinking. Your blog is a wonderful, wholesome, and positive place that I love to visit and it wouldn’t be nearly the same without your insight and gentle encouragement to act gracefully. I’ve never left a comment before but I felt compelled to in this situation. Please keep writing and remember that kindness and patience persevere!

terry

February 14, 2014 at 2:15 pm (6 years ago)

Don’t ever stop being you! I love your blog just the way that it is, which is why I love to share your recipes so much. Your blog is a place that I can come to if I need inspiration, if I want to read something uplifting, if I just need a chuckle…I can find something to suit any of my needs. If someone is here just for a recipe they should take it and be kind but understand that they are missing out on the best food that there is to be found…soul food!

teapot_rabbit

February 14, 2014 at 7:03 pm (6 years ago)

I like your recipes, though I rarely comment. Your stories make me smile and your photographs are beautiful, so please keep posting them. 🙂

Today I was looking for your chocolate skillet cake recipe because I wanted to make something low-key for Valentines, and I HAD to comment on this post. Kindness on the internet is a huge issue for both my husband and I, and it makes me really happy that you’re also passionate about it. My husband is an indie game developer, and game development is unfortunately a field where people seem to think it’s totally okay to send violent vitriol of the worst sort to creators, and then throw more fits when the same developers they’ve been slagging quit. I don’t get it. How can anyone think that death threats (or worse, death threats against developers’ kids) are ever okay? I think part of it is a lack of empathy – or kindness – but it’s just such a frustrating problem. I just hope I can teach my future kids to be better than that. Anyway, thanks for speaking up, and I really like your little THINK infographic.

Sandysan

February 16, 2014 at 8:03 am (6 years ago)

I’m mostly here for the recipes. I love reading about the way you’ve adapted something to best suit you. Nevertheless, there are days, like today, when in read the rest and come away better informed and armed with information, thoughts, or suggestions that make me better. My limited on-line interactions are due to the behaviors of the least kind and thoughtful among us. Maybe it’s time to be led by the better two-thirds. Keep up the good work.

Kelly

February 16, 2014 at 11:18 am (6 years ago)

The person who left the unkind comment obviously doesn’t understand the concept of a “blog.” We live in a world where community can sometimes feel like something from the past, yet it is something we all yearn. The desire to connect. Prime example, her need to share what she her comment in addition to sharing your recipe. She needs to realize the person who shares unkind comments on the internet is no different than being snarky in the break room at work. Continue to share your life and recipes in this community. It’s appreciated.

Kelly

Amy

February 16, 2014 at 9:12 pm (6 years ago)

I’m eating this right now and it’s DELICIOUS! Just a note: I didn’t have coconut extract so I left it out and increased the vanilla to 1/2 tsp. It still has a lovely light coconut flavor, it’s so comforting without being heavy.

Cammy

February 16, 2014 at 11:55 pm (6 years ago)

This was delish! I made it tonight for my family and they all wanted the recipe. And aside from being an excellent cook, Julie , you are an excellent writer. I am so glad you share your insights with the world through your blog. I hope the haterz don’t keep you feeling down for long!

Barbara

February 18, 2014 at 11:57 pm (6 years ago)

I’m kind of new to your blog and yet, I actually DO take the time to read what it is you have to say on here because I find your thoughts interesting and thought provoking and funny at times. You have a successful blog and over 11k likes on your FB page. What does that hater have? Probably not a cool blog like you do. There’s always the back button if you don’t like someone’s site. Keep on posting those awesome recipes that we love 🙂

Debbie

February 23, 2014 at 6:26 pm (6 years ago)

Julie- I enjoy your heartfelt writing as well as your recipes. Some people never cease to amaze me- they think they can say what they want to say when they want to say it with no repercussions- but the truth is those type of people are very limited and have very narrow lives and closed hearts.
G-d bless you for your talents, you bring light into the lives of those who read your blog with an open mind and heart!

Tammy

February 24, 2014 at 2:02 pm (6 years ago)

The thing I love about blogs are the stories and heart felt thoughts . I look forward receiving your email updates and I truly enjoy reading all your posts. You are a great writer and cook and I thank you for sharing so many wonderful recipes. By the way, I am a coconut fanatic and this recipe looks and sounds amazing!! I think I could eat the whole thing by myself! Thanks! :p

Vickie H.

April 2, 2014 at 1:35 pm (6 years ago)

I am way behind on reading your blog but want you to know that I LOVE the format of this blog! I love the human interest stuff you post and the recipes too! I share things you post here with other friends….usually NOT the recipes since I am mostly the only baker I know…but the other GREAT STUFF! So, please keep doing what you do. I love it. It soothes my spirit! God bless you!

Barb Murray

April 8, 2014 at 4:54 pm (6 years ago)

I LOVE your stories, and photos, and recipes!! I’m not religious yet respect your faith, and will not say anything unkind because you believe in something I do not, to each his/her own, and whatever gets you through life.

Eve Brooks

August 6, 2014 at 12:18 pm (6 years ago)

I found this/you just now on Pinterest searching for a coconut pudding recipe (I need to get rid of some of the boxed variety), and read the entire post -I KNOW! I’m brave like that 😉 First of all, now I can’t wait to try this—> looks DELISH!!! Secondly, the poor woman in question has my sincere pity (what goes around, comes around). Can’t imagine the life she has/has had that her heart and time is not open to such warm wonderful writing. Shake it off tho-you are bringing greatly needed beauty into this world (in more ways than one), and bless her heart, hopefully she will tune in again and take the time to have her spirits raised! Hugs and blessings!

joanie

September 16, 2014 at 5:49 pm (6 years ago)

I deal with people on websites all day long. They think just because they can’t see your face they can say whatever they want to. They are hateful people that need to look in a mirror and decide if they like what they see. Keep up the good work.
Thanks